November 9, 2022 | View Online |Â Sign Up
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Lisbon is built on rejuvenation.
Molded, destroyed, and reborn over thousands of years by countless conquerors, natural disasters, and political clashes, it entered the 21st century as the capital of one of the poorest countries in Western Europe.
But finally, the City of Seven Hills is standing on its own two feet and drawing quite the crowd. From its era-spanning panoramic views to the eclectic nightlife and food scene, Lisbon is truly a city transformed. Its aesthetic splendor is only matched by the refreshingly affordable cost of a visit, making it a practical no-brainer.
Bem-vindo a Lisboa
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| FUN FACTS
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It looks good for its age
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Despite its location in Western Europe, Portugal has long lived in the touristic shadow of its neighbor, Spain. So it may come as a surprise that Lisbon is the oldest city in Western Europe, and second only to Athens on the rest of the continent.
At different times, the city has been ruled by the Iberians, Celts, Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Spanish, and French, before a period of far-right dictatorship in the 20th century. All of this change has made for a massively diverse cityscape and population, something that’s celebrated now.
Of course, the earthquake of 1755 almost destroyed the entire city, killing almost a quarter of its population and 85% of its buildings. There is a stark contrast in the city between buildings that survived and those that were rebuilt — some of the first earthquake-proof buildings in Europe.
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| KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
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It’s experiencing the digital revolution
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Lisbon has been at the center of the digital nomad revolution for the past few years, and is often named in conversations regarding the best cities for wandering workers to operate. While this makes it excellent for up-to-date technology, strong internet, and comfortable (and affordable) living arrangements, it can also be detrimental.
As with many other cities experiencing a similar surge, the sudden appearance of often wealthier digital nomads can put pressure on the local housing market and sometimes price residents out of the city. While most people enjoy a hostility-free time in Lisbon, be aware that some residents may not be as excited about the changes taking place.
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It’s budget-friendly compared to other Western European cities
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Lisbon is known for being one of the most affordable cities in Western Europe. When compared with Paris or London, the difference can be huge.
Cheap food, alcohol, and accommodations can make for a wonderfully budget-friendly trip, but don’t overestimate how frugal you can be. Prices are rising, especially in the places where ex-pats and tourists hang out, so you should still budget accordingly.
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Use public transport but bring your walking shoes
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Getting around Lisbon is super easy. It’s a walkable city, but don’t underestimate the hills. Comfortable shoes should win over your stylish kicks for long days out. It’s not worth renting a car, as it’ll be more stressful than you need, as well as a lot more expensive.
Public transport is extensive, and the trams are a wonderful way to get around the city, especially if your calves can’t deal with any more slopes.
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| HOLIDAY OUTPOST
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Start shopping the best selling gifts of 2022
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This season, Huckberry has you covered with their Holiday Outpost, the ultimate gifting destination.
To make your life easier, they've curated a list of 2022's most coveted gifts. Grab an unexpected gift for the impossible-to-shop-for men in your life. The Chef. The Outdoorsman. The Indoorsman. Blow them away with small-but-mighty stocking stuffers and retro ornaments. Grab cold-weather gifts to fend off winter and
travel-friendly gifts for that person always on the go. Huckberry has something for everyone. And if you really can't decide, let your loved ones choose with a guaranteed-to-fit E-Gift Card!
No more last minute shopping for the special people in your life. Head over to the Huckberry Holiday Outpost now and raise the bar on your gift giving this holiday season!
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| THINGS TO DO
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Explore the historic district of Belem
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Belem is the heart of historic Lisbon, harking back to Portugal’s days as a global colonial power. It’s a must-see region of the city, and you’ll almost certainly end up there whether you’re trying to or not.
At the top of the historic to-do list is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a stunning UNESCO-protected site built at the turn of the 16th century. Originally constructed to flout Portugal's new wealth from overseas, monks made it their home until the 1800s. Since then, it’s been used as a school and an orphanage before being opened to the public and used as a museum and art space. It even survived the Great Earthquake relatively unscathed.
Once you’re finished at the monastery, head to Belem Tower, the castle-like structure sitting on the banks of the River Tagus. This was the point where Portugal’s greatest explorers left and returned during the Renaissance, functioning as a gateway to the city itself. You can explore inside and head up its tiny spiral staircase to enjoy wonderful views of the city.
On top of the two heavyweight attractions, Belem is home to several outstanding museums, including the Coach Museum — a tourist favorite — and the Contemporary Art Museum.
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Get familiar with Fado
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Visiting Lisbon without experiencing fado is borderline criminal. The city’s traditional music is an experience in itself, worth doing early in your trip in case you want to go back.
The melancholy genre is characterized by the mournful but soul-filled sound of the Portuguese guitar, accompanied by a typically sad love song, although some older songs were about lonely life at sea.
There are a ton of excellent bars, restaurants, and venues to listen to fado, but know that it’s likely to be an endearing part of your time in the city. At some places, you can enjoy performances as long as three or four hours while you enjoy dinner. Other smaller establishments are intimate drinking holes, where music takes center stage.
Whatever you do, seek it out. Few types of music are so engrained in a city.
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Get lost in Alfama
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Alfama is one of the city’s oldest districts, one of the few to make it through the Great Quake, and it’s narrow cobbled streets are more than worth a day’s exploration.
Once an upper-class Moorish area, it fell into disrepair and became home to the downtrodden and poor, fishermen and laborers with little to their name. Nowadays, as with many regions with similar backstories, it’s experienced a resurgence and become a trendy hub for artsy types.
But its charm remains in the winding labyrinth of streets and brightly coloured homes that are said to be the home of the fado music genre.Â
Its packed with independent shops, restaurants, and galleries, perfect for an unplanned walkabout. It is very hilly though, so prepare yourself for some serious urban-hiking. Those who do will be rewarded by some of the best views in the city, wonderful street art, and an array of picturesque churches and centuries old ruins. Just don’t forget your camera.
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| WHERE TO STAY
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Take your pick: Palacial or practical
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With such an architecturally and historically varied city, you’re going to be left with a lot of decisions to make on your accommodation.
Some stunning traditional homes have been converted into high-end boutique hotels, while others remain true to their past and offer a stripped down experience of authentic Lisbon. Whatever your inclinations, you’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice. Not to mention the fact that Lisbon remains an easy place to grab a great value spot.
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Our Top Pick: Verride Palacio
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Lisbon, Portugal
$$$-$$$$Â | See inside
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First, take a look at the rooftop pool's view — breathtaking. Then check out the interior — mesmerizing. This converted palacio is the stuff of Portuguese dreams, and is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days of Lisboan exploration.
Prices vary drastically depending on the time of year, but with rates as low as $350 for a 5-star hotel, this combination of value and luxury is stellar.
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| Book Your Stay |
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Our other Top Picks
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| WHERE TO EAT
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From seafood to sweets: A city that knows how to eat
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Portugal knows more than a thing or two about food.
Lisbon serves as the gateway to the Atlantic, and as such, seafood should be at the top of the agenda. On a short trip, the now famous Time Out market, which houses some of the city's most revered chefs, is the easiest way to sample a huge amount of local delicacies in a short amount of time.
The delectable pastel de nata, Portugal's culinary claim to fame, is a beloved local treat that should never be overlooked. These creamy egg tarts may be famous around the world, but only Lisbon is the true birthplace of the iconic pastry — the original recipe of which only three people even know.
Pro Tip:Â When they ask if you want sugar and cinnamon for your pastel, say sim (yes) and thank me later.
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Our Top Pick: Canto de Atalia
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Lisbon, Portugal
$$Â |Â Menu
For the ultimate Lisboa experience, Canto de Atalia is almost certain to hit the mark. Not only will you be able to sample some of the finest examples of local cooking, but you’ll also enjoy live Fado performances to boot.Â
Again, if you’re on a shorter trip, restaurants like this are ideal. The prices are extremely fair as well, so no stress on the wallet.
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The Best of the Rest
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| WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN LISBON
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